Federal Nationals Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has welcomed the opening of applications for Round 1 of the On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP)
The program is a new one which is intended to boost productivity, growth, and sustainability through connected technology in the agriculture sector.
“This new program is an opportunity for primary producers to take advantage of the latest technologies to improve their methods of farming,” Mr Coulton said.
“I’m pleased to see this investment into the ag sector, which is such a large contributor to the Parkes electorate and supplies food, fibre and other resources to the rest of the country.
“This program came about as a result of the 2021 Regional Telecommunications Review commissioned by the former Nationals Government, which recognised that telecommunications services, and in particular mobile services, were failing many parts of regional Australia, and the OFCP was one of the recommendations made to respond to these challenges.”
The OFCP will provide $30 million over two years, with Round 1 contributing $15 million towards rebates of up to 50 per cent of the cost of eligible smart farming technology which can assist with monitoring livestock, improving water efficiency, optimising soil quality, and improving farm logistics and connectivity.
Following an expression of interest process earlier this year, selected equipment suppliers will be able to participate in the program, which will see them receive rebates between $3,000 and $30,000 for eligible equipment purchased by primary producers.
Eligible primary producers have until 30 June 2024 or until Round 1 funding is exhausted to access discounted smart farming technologies through one of the eligible equipment suppliers.
Mr Coulton said this program has been in the pipeline for some time.
“I’m glad to see it finally open it up so our local producers can begin to access discounted connective technologies,” he said.
The Regional Tech Hub – delivered by the National Farmers’ Federation and funded by the Australian Government – has been engaged to provide free independent expert advice to primary producers who may need assistance in determining which connectivity solutions would deliver the necessary improvements to their business operations.
To contact the Regional Tech Hub call 1300 081 029 or visit its website: regionaltechhub.org.au
To find out more about the On Farm Connectivity Program visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia/farm-connectivity-program
